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Female Pattern Hair Loss
(Androgenetic Alopecia)
The most common type of hair loss seen in women is
androgenetic alopecia, also known as female pattern alopecia
or
 baldness.
This is seen as hair thinning predominantly over the top and
sides of the head. It affects approximately one-third of all
susceptible women, but is most commonly seen after
menopause, although it may begin as early as puberty.
Normal
hair fall is approximately 100-125 hairs per day.
Fortunately, these hairs are replaced. True hair loss occurs
when lost hairs are not regrown or when the daily hair shed
exceeds 125 hairs. Genetically, hair loss can come from
either parents side of the family.
There are two different types of hair loss, medically known
as anagen effluvium and Telogen effluvium. Anagen effluvium
is generally due to internally administered medications,
such as chemotherapy agents, that poison the growing hair
follicle. Telogen effluvium, is due to an increased number
of hair follicles entering the resting stage.
The most common causes of telogen effluvium are:
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Physical stress: surgery,
illness, anemia, rapid weight change.
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Emotional stress: mental
illness, death of a family member.
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Thyroid abnormalities.
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Medications: High doses of
Vitamin A, Blood pressure and Gout medications.
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Hormonal causes:
pregnancy, birth control pills, menopause.
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When the above causes of
telogen effluvium are reversed or altered you should see
the return of normal hair growth.
Diet Considerations
Hair loss may also occur due
to dieting. Franchised diet programs which are designed or
administered under the direction of a physician with
prescribed meals, dietary supplements and vitamin ingestion
have become popular. Sometimes the client is told that
vitamins are a necessary part of the program to prevent hair
loss associated with dieting. From a dermatologists'
standpoint, however, the vitamins cannot prevent hair loss
associated with rapid, significant weight loss. Furthermore,
many of these supplements are high in vitamin A which can
magnify the hair loss.
Physical and Emotional Stress
Surgeries, severe illnesses
and emotional stress can cause hair loss. The body simply
shuts down production of hair during periods of stress since
it is not necessary for survival and instead devotes its
energies toward repairing vital body structures. In many
cases there is a three month delay between the actual event
and the onset of hair loss. Furthermore, there may be
another three month delay prior to the return of noticeable
hair regrowth. This then means that the total hair loss and
regrowth cycle can last 6 months or possibly longer when
induced by physical or emotional stress. There are some
health conditions which may go undetected that can
contribute to hair loss. These include anemia or low blood
count and thyroid abnormalities. Both of these conditions
can be detected by a simple, inexpensive blood test.
Hormonal Considerations
Hormonal changes are a common
cause of female hair loss. Many women do not realize that
hair loss can occur after pregnancy or following
discontinuation of birth control pills. It is important to
remember that the hair loss may be delayed by three months
following the hormonal change and another three months will
be required for new growth to be fully achieved.
Myths Related to Hair Loss
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Frequent shampooing
contributes to hair loss.
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Hats and wigs cause hair
loss.100 strokes of the hair brush daily will create
healthier hair.
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Permanent hair loss is
caused by perms, colors and other cosmetic treatments.
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Women are expected to
develop significant hair loss if they are healthy.
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Shaving one's head will
cause the hair to grow back thicker.
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Standing on one's head
will cause increased circulation and thereby stimulate
hair growth!
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Dandruff causes permanent
hair loss.
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There are cosmetic
products that will cause the hair to grow thicker and
faster.
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Stress causes permanent
hair loss.
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Hair loss does not occur
in the late teens or early twenties.
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Hair loss affects only
intellectuals.
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There is a cure for
androgenetic Alopecia.
These are only a few of the
common myths heard by physicians and other hair loss
specialists on a daily basis. The American Hair Loss Council
suggests that you first have your hair loss diagnosed by a
competent dermatologist who sees hair loss patients on a
regular basis. Once you know the diagnosis you will have a
better understanding of exactly which treatment option may
be best for you.
Treatment Options Available
for Female Pattern Hair Loss
Perms, color and other
cosmetic options to give a fuller appearance to hair.
Topical treatment - Rogaine
(topical minoxidil). Rogaine is the only FDA approved
medication currently available for female pattern hair loss.
Hair Transplant Surgery -
Modern surgical techniques have made transplantation for
females a viable treatment option providing they are
qualified candidates and have realistic expectations.
Hair Replacement Hair Systems
-- Modern forms of hair additions have also made recent
improvements in simulating a natural appearance. A
consultation with a skilled specialist to discuss your
options is advised.
Free Confidential Hair Loss
Evaluation
 Schedule
your free, confidential hair loss replacement consultation
today. Meet with a trained Hal's Hair Center professional
at our state-of-the-art hair replacement center in North Augusta, South Carolina.
There is no charge or obligation! Your image consultant will
provide information regarding causes of baldness and options
tailored to your specific situation and lifestyle.
Take the first step to a new you. Book your free,
confidential appointment today. To learn about the solutions
available to you, please call us at (803) 278-1817 to
arrange a free, confidential consultation.
CLICK HERE to schedule your appointment
online.
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